THE FOOTBALL Supporters Europe (FSE) has asked FIFA to stop selling tickets for national teams at the 2026 World Cup right away.
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| REUTERS / Luis Cortes |
They say FIFA is charging prices that are too high and might stop regular fans from attending. In a statement on Thursday, FSE said ticket prices for participating member associations (PMAs) have gone up to very high levels, causing worry among supporter groups across Europe.
FSE shared leaked price lists sent to national teams. These show that a fan who follows their team from the group stage to the final through the PMA system would need to pay at least $6,900 — almost five times what it cost for the same route at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Supporters would also have to pay the entire amount upfront in early 2026 to get the chance to buy tickets during the tournament. FIFA hasn't commented on these claims or responded to media questions.
FSE criticized FIFA for not offering the lowest priced tickets, Category 4, to loyal national team supporters.Instead, these tickets are only available for the general public through dynamic pricing. The group called this a "monumental betrayal" of World Cup traditions. They also said that rising ticket prices — with final tickets reportedly going for $4,000 — are harming the spirit that traveling fans bring to the event. FSE pointed out that different teams' fans might pay different prices for the same ticket category, with little transparency.
The organisation warned that the cost being put on supporters could lead many to skip the tournament, especially families facing total costs close to $30,000. FSE is urging FIFA to stop selling PMA tickets and to talk with associations, fan groups, and other stakeholders to find a solution that "respects the tradition, universality, and cultural importance of the World Cup."